Sugar & Spice... and Everything Rice

I predicted Arsenal to win the Premier League this season; and while I could still be wrong (err actually most likely wrong); the main reason was one Declan Rice. Even at his tender age; he brings a maturity & stability to the Arsenal team that was sorely lacking last season; oh and William Saliba is not injured too.

Witness Rice's latest display in their vital 3-0 victory over Bournemouth; it was another all-encompassing display that proves he is one of the top defensive midfielders in the world right now. When things were getting nervy after a goal-less-looking first half; it was he who steadied the ship. When things were looking nervy (again) after Bournemouth started to show their identity in the second half; it was Rice again who provided the flick assist for Leandro Trossard to score & clam the nerves.

Unlike last season; Arsenal are coming to form at exactly the right time; with their intricate passing going into overdrive & players like Kai Havertz; Bukayo Saka & Thomas Partey all blossoming at exactly the right moments. Manchester City indeed still have the upper hand; but this time round; it will not be Arsenal's season to lose.